The organization took on the new identity after its final game Wednesday night against the Mavericks. The Hornets lost that game 99-87.

But Thursday is a new day, new season and new life for the new Pelicans.

With the new name, new website, new Twitter handle (@pelicansnba) and Facebook pages, the birds will change their image.

The organization said fans of their new feathered fowl team can participate in the process as a new mascot, new uniforms and new name for the dance team.

“We’ve been looking forward to this day since we announced the Pelicans as the new name,” said owner Tom Benson. “The Pelican is a symbol for our city and region and we’re excited to start a new era in Louisiana basketball history. This off-season is going to be a special time for the Pelicans.”

The announcement of the Pelicans came in January. The team said the new name represents the culture and resolve of the Gulf Coast region while also symbolizing Louisiana’s most pressing initiative of coastal restoration and wildlife conservation.

The Pelicans’ colors are blue, gold and red – the same colors as the New Orleans city flag.

The blue primary color is taken from the state flag of Louisiana, the team said.

Gold is used, uniting the Pelicans and the New Orleans Saints of the NFL. Benson owns both the Pelicans and the Saints. The team said in a news release on Thursday that the gold color will unite the organizations, while “celebrating the spirited life of New Orleans and its many celebrations.

Red represents fraternity and is “indicative of the blood provision of the mother pelican and the vibrant color underneath the pelican’s throat.”

The organization will participate in its first NBA event as the Pelicans on May 21 at the 2013 NBA Draft Lottery.